The use of the natural toxin rotenone to remove invasive, non-native species of trout to protect native species is a controversial topic. Does it really work? What does the poison do to the insect, mammal, and bird populations? Ted Williams [52:36], a proponent of these tactics in selected waters, discusses where reclaiming populations has been successful and also places where it would not make sense. Ted is one of the foremost environmental writers of our time and is never afraid to stick his neck out, so you may agree with what he says or you may not, but you’ll learn some important biology in the process.

 

In the Fly Box this week, we have a host of interesting questions and some great tips from listeners, including:

• A plug for Trout Unlimited’s “Trout in the Classroom” projects
• What is your favorite rod for small streams, what size flies do you use, and where do I find the biggest trout in small streams?
• Can I use nymphs in small streams?  They have not worked for me.
• How do you test water temperature?  Do you need to suspend the thermometer deep in the water?
• How can I catch walleye on my fly rod?
• At what water temperature should I fish for bass?
• How long do you stick with one fly before changing it, and what do you look for in new water?
• Have you found any difference between painted and unpainted flies on streamers?
• I want to do some writing about fly fishing.  How do you handle criticism when you do this?
• What is the best practice for tipping guides?
• Do you recommend studs for rubber-soled waders, and how often can you remove them and then put them back?
• On cloudy days I can’t see as much with my polarized glasses?  What should I do?
• How long does it take for trout to get back into their normal positions after a flood?
• Should you present streamers differently in the early season than you would later in the spring?
• The dry fly on my dry/dropper rig keeps twisting.  What can I do to avoid this?
• How do you get your fly to fish in deep water running along the bottom?
• I keep breaking my tippet where it connects to my tippet ring even though I am using a lighter tippet to my flies.  What can I do?